Sherburne-Earlville 21, Ilion 6

SHERBURNE – From the first defensive stand to its second offensive play of the game, the Marauders proved they were a different team from the winless 0-8 outfit of a year ago.

After holding the Golden Bombers inside the 10-yard line, Billy Northey gave indication of a huge day to come rumbling 95 yards for a touchdown to quiet any Ilion supporters and infuse the S-E faithful. Northey finished with 324 yards rushing on 27 carries, one of the all-time best rushing days in Chenango County history and certainly among the top performances in S-E history. Most importantly, it ended the losing skein that had stuck in the side of this host maroon-clad players. “Now we know we can do it, and we have to work this hard for every game,” said second-year S-E coach Mick James. “The kids played with spirit and pride. They’re learning how to win, and this is a big step forward.”